It’s been a big week of footy – as always!
The Hawks got up on Thursday night, setting up a top of the ladder clash with the Swans this Thursday night at the SCG.
Just in case you haven't been paying attention, here’s ten things you might have missed over the weekend - some obvious, some not so obvious!
1. Hawthorn makes it six straight
The Hawks saw off a big challenge from Port Adelaide on Thursday night, winning by 22 points at Adelaide Oval.
Luke Hodge, Jordan Lewis and Cyril Rioli were all among the best, as the Hawks proved they’re peaking at the right time of the year – winning their sixth straight match.
2. Poppy claims another mark of the year contender
Not for the first time this year, and probably not for the last… Poppy sure knows how to pull in a hanger!
Puopolo takes another ripping hanger! #ohwhatafeeling #AFLPowerHawks https://t.co/2QTofz5Gtv
— AFL (@AFL) July 7, 2016
3.Hawks still on top of the ladder
With seven matches to go until the finals, the Hawks sit a game clear on top of the ladder, ahead of Sydney, Adelaide and Western Bulldogs.
Thursday night’s match against the Swans looms large – a win would go a long way to setting up a top-two finish.
4. The Swans knocked off the Cats
Two contenders went head-to-head, and the Swans came out on top by 38 points.
The Swans’ midfield was exceptional – led by Kieren Jack, Tom Mitchell and Luke Parker – presenting a big challenge for the Hawks this week.
5. Whitey, Gus impress at VFL level
Box Hill Hawks couldn’t quite get the job done against Williamstown, going down by 10 points, but there were some strong performers.
Brendan Whitecross (33 disposals) and Angus Litherland (25 disposals) were two of the best, pushing their cases for AFL selection.
6. Hawks and Federer?
In the words of The Age journo Greg Baum, “either Roger Federer is the Hawthorn of tennis, or the Hawks are the Federer of the AFL.”
His article in Friday’s paper was definitely an interesting read!
7. Light at end of tunnel for Fitzpatrick
First-year Hawk Jack Fitzpatrick hasn’t had a lot of luck, but hopefully it’s about to turn.
He’s missed the past month and a half with concussion, but GM – Football Operations Chris Fagan told The Herald Sun that “there is some light at the end of the tunnel” for Fitzpatrick.
8. We took a stand: Clarkson
Alastair Clarkson laid down the law ahead of Thursday night’s clash with Port Adelaide, and his charges “took a stand”.
Another big challenge presents itself this week, as the Hawks seek a win against the Swans – who got the points earlier this year.
9. Pup struck down
Against the Swans’ star-studded midfielder, the Hawks will hope to have pressure king Liam Shiels at their disposal.
But after coming off with a hamstring injury on Thursday night, we’ll have to wait for the Bupa Recovery Report to find out if Shiels is a chance to play.
10. If you’re struggling for something to talk about…
Cyril.
How good was he on Thursday night?
Cyril Rioli wasn't awarded a mark for this, but this was a top effort. #AFLPowerHawks https://t.co/zSsSBoKUtj
— AFL (@AFL) July 7, 2016